Sandrine Collette Wins Goncourt des Détenus Prize After Lycéens Award
From Noir to Fairytale: Author Wins Prestigious Literary Prize Twice
Sandrine Collette’s “Madelaine Before Dawn” Captures Hearts of Both Teen Readers and Incarcerated Jurors
In a remarkable feat, french author Sandrine Collette has won the prestigious goncourt des Détenus prize for her novel “Madelaine Before Dawn,” just weeks after it claimed the Goncourt des Lycéens award. The announcement, made Tuesday by the Center national du livre, highlights the captivating power of Collette’s fairytale-like story.
“Madelaine before Dawn,” published in August by JC Lattès,had already made waves in the literary world,reaching the finals of the main Goncourt Prize in November. While it secured only one vote from the ten-member jury, its impact resonated deeply with a wider audience.
Collette, 54, began her writing career with noir novels, achieving success that allowed her to pursue her passion for horses. She later transitioned to what is known as “literary fiction,” aiming for recognition from major literary awards.
A doctor of political science who shifted to administrative roles at a university, Collette now dedicates herself to writing from her home in the Morvan region of France.
“Madelaine Before Dawn,” set in a medieval village, tells the story of a wild child’s arrival and the impact she has on the community. The novel’s enchanting narrative resonated with both teenage readers and incarcerated jurors,showcasing its universal appeal.
Established in 2022, the Goncourt des Détenus prize is unique, with 600 jurors deliberating across 45 correctional facilities throughout France, including overseas territories. This recognition underscores the power of literature to connect with individuals from all walks of life.
Inmates Choose New Literary Prize Winner at Historic Paris Event
Paris, France – Ten inmates, men and women, gathered in a unique deliberation at the Centre national du livre (CNL) in Paris, culminating in the selection of a winner for a new literary prize. The process, which spanned four months, involved readings, discussions, and a final closed-door vote.CNL President Régine Hatchondo celebrated the initiative in a statement, praising ”the culmination of these four months of meetings, readings, and debates.”
This innovative project aimed to bridge the gap between literature and incarcerated individuals, offering them a platform to engage with the written word and participate in the cultural landscape.
From Noir to fairytale: An Interview with Sandrine Collette
NewsDirect3: Sandrine, congratulations on winning the Goncourt des Détenus prize for “Madelaine Before Dawn.” This comes just weeks after winning the Goncourt des Lycéens. How does it feel to have your novel resonate so deeply with both teenage readers and incarcerated jurors?
Sandrine Collette: It’s truly humbling. “Madelaine Before Dawn” was born from a desire to tell a timeless story that transcends age and circumstance.I believe fairy tales hold a universal appeal, speaking to our shared human experiences of love, loss, and finding belonging. To see this reflected in the responses of both young readers and those within the correctional system is incredibly rewarding.
NewsDirect3: Your career began with noir novels,and you’ve now found success with “literary fiction.” What drew you to this new genre, and did your past experiences influence “Madelaine Before Dawn” in any way?
Sandrine Collette: Noir allowed me to explore the darker aspects of human nature, honing my storytelling craft. However, I always harbored a fascination with fairytales and their ability to offer hope and escape. “Madelaine Before Dawn” was a chance to blend thes influences – to weave a tale that is both enchanting and thought-provoking.
NewsDirect3: The Goncourt des Détenus prize is unique in its jury composition. How does it feel to know that your work has touched individuals within the correctional system?
Sandrine Collette: It’s a profound honor.Literature possesses a remarkable ability to connect us, regardless of our circumstances. I believe stories can offer solace, inspire empathy, and ignite a spark of hope. If “madelaine Before Dawn” has provided some of that to the jurors, I’m deeply grateful.
NewsDirect3: What message do you hope readers take away from “Madelaine before Dawn”?
Sandrine Collette: I hope it encourages readers to embrace imagination and believe in the power of stories. Beyond that, I hope it reminds us that connection and understanding can exist even in the moast unexpected places.